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ICAO4U – aviation language Banning Smart Suitcases: Danger Caused by Passengers

Banning Smart Suitcases: Danger Caused by Passengers

  • ban suitcases from the cargo hold and the cabin 
  • bring the suitcases on board in carry -on luggag
  • policy on dangerous goods – polityka/ zasady postępowania z przedmiotami niebezpiecznymi

Numerous airlines (including American, Delta, Alaska, Qantas and Virgin)  have banned smart suitcases from the cargo hold and the cabin. In most cases it will be possible to bring the suitcase on board in carry-on luggage if the battery is removed.  Qantas has not allowed smart suitcases with batteries in the cargo hold for some time, in line with its general policy on dangerous goods.

  • relevant regulations are strictly adhered to

Virgin Australia ensures that all relevant regulations are strictly adhered to with regards to the use of portable electronic equipment with batteries installed,’ the airline said.

  • charge devices
  • weigh themselves
  • lock remotely via mobile phone
  • track lugage if they are missing
  • overheating
  • spark fire

Smart suitcases can charge devices, weigh themselves and be locked remotely via mobile phone. They also contain GPS technology so travellers can track luggage if it goes missing. These features are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which have a history of overheating and sparking fire.

  • 0:11′ cause fire
  • 0:14′ apparent dangers 
  • 0:27 batteries which cannot be removed 
  • 0:30′ malfunction 
  • 0:55′ urge to prohibit 
  • 1:32′ do due diligence
  • 1:32′ comply with the regulations
  • 1:32′ present obstacle 

Watch HERE the film on banning smart suitcases by the airlines

DANGEROUS SITUATIONS/ AVIATION LAW